Best Mac Keyboard Programming

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This Mac dev tool has been recommended for its ease of use as well as its integration into the command line. Xcode is an integrated development environment that offers a comprehensive set of Mac developer tools - everything programmers need to build great applications for Mac, iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, and Apple Watch. Mac-compatible keyboard (has a Command key, not Windows) Directions: First up, take a look at the Mac keyboard in front of you to familiarize yourself with a few Mac-specific keys. 2Do for Mac price: $49.99, and there's a 21-day free trial. 2Do is also available on Setapp, which is a $10 a month subscription service with access to dozens of Mac applications. Best text-based Mac to-do list app for managing with only your keyboard.

The Best Mac Keyboard for Programming The top panel of the wired Das keyboard is made of aluminum, with the claim that it can handle 50 million clicks. Also, the key inscriptions are laser-etched, so they won't fade away as fast. Best Alternatives to Apple's Magic Keyboard iMore 2021. What is the best Magic Keyboard alternative? How to install downloaded programs on mac. Every iMac and iMac Pro comes with a specially designed, Apple-branded Magic Keyboard, and you either love it or hate it. There are plenty of third-party keyboards for Mac on the market.

Programmers spend a lot of time typing, and most people don't realize the importance of having the right medium to do so.

Choosing a wrong keyboard and using it for a long time can affect your efficiency, speed, and health.

That is why investing in the best keyboard for programming is more important than you think.

And how do you do that? We did the research so you don't have to.

Top Picks:

PreviewProduct
Corsair K95 RGB Platinum XT Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Backlit RGB LED, Cherry MX Speed RGB Silver,..
Das Keyboard 4 Professional Mechanical Keyboard - High Performance Clicky Tactile Feedback -..
Razer BlackWidow Elite Mechanical Gaming Keyboard: Green Mechanical Switches - Tactile & Clicky -..
Happy Hacking Keyboard Professional2 (Compact, Charcoal, Printed Keycaps, 45G)
Code V3 87-Key Illuminated Mechanical Keyboard - White LED Backlighting, Black Case (Cherry MX..
Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard for Business (5KV-00001 )
Kinesis Advantage2 Ergonomic Keyboard (KB600), Black top case, Cherry MX Brown Switches, QWERTY..

How to choose the best keyboard for programming

Interestingly enough, gamers and programmers have similar requirements when it comes to the right keyboard.

There are a lot of different options out there, and in the end, it all boils down to a couple of rules and your personal preference.

First, your keyboard should be comfortable, especially if you work long hours. Ideally, the keyboard should fit your hands comfortably and make you move them around as less as possible. Ergonomically designed keyboards have various forms that will help your wrists, and you can get an ergonomically designed mouse to go with it.

The big part of that is also the size. This is something that you should choose based on what you're comfortable with. While full-sized keyboards have all the keys, they make your hand move around too much, which is not good for your wrists.

Next, mechanical keyboards are better than membranes because switches are more responsive. Switches can be clicky, tactile and linear, and most programmers prefer the first two, but choosing a quieter one is better if you work with other people. Your keyboard should also have an n-key rollover.

Choosing a wired or wireless keyboard is also subjective. Wired keyboards make clutter and aren't that portable, but they also don't have limited battery life. The best keyboards can be both.

Other than that, it could have some extra features like the programmable keys, media buttons, backlight, or onboard memory, but these are also the things that are based on your personal preference.

Last but not least, it should be made out of high-quality material and built sturdy so that it can last you a long time.

Best Keyboards for Programming

Corsair K95 RGB Platinum XT

The Best Keyboard for Programming and Gaming


Also listed as one of the best gaming keyboards, this one has a lot of features that are essential to programmers.

This wired keyboard sports keycaps are made from double-shot PBT, making them more durable than regular keys, so this keyboard is made to be used for a long time.

Putting the Cherry MX switches on this mechanical Corsair model makes typing ultra-fast and easy, and they can be Silver, Black, Blue, or Brown, depending on your preference, making it the best keyboard for programming and gaming.

Additionally, it has a 2.0 USB port at the back, keys for sound control, and a column of 6 programmable keys on the left. The latter can easily be programmed with the Corsair's software called iCue, along with adjusting the RGB backlight.

The problem with full-sized keyboards is that you move your hand too much when you use them, but the problem of comfort is made easier here by the addition of a demountable wrist rest.

Unfortunately, the compatibility with macOS is incomplete and not all keys can be used, and the iCue software can't operate on Linux which makes it impossible to reprogram the keys. The good news is that the latter can be solved with the help of a separate Windows-operated machine and the Corsair's memory.

Pros:
  • Cherry MX switches (Silver, Black, Blue, or Brown)
  • 6 programmable keys
  • Demountable wrist rest
  • Lasting PBT keycaps
  • USB 2.0 port

Keyboard Programming Software

Cons:
  • macOS not completely compatible
  • iCue can't operate on Linux

Das Keyboard 4 Professional

The Best Mac Keyboard for Programming


The top panel of the wired Das keyboard is made of aluminum, with the claim that it can handle 50 million clicks. Also, the key inscriptions are laser-etched, so they won't fade away as fast.

It comes with a 6.5ft long cable, so you can move it around.

This mechanical keyboard can come with tactile Brown or Blue Cherry MX switches, depending on whether you want something more quiet or not, respectively.

Controlling your music is made convenient with an oversized volume knob and keys that you can use to skip tracks easily.

Other additional features are the two USB 3.0 with super-fast 5GB per second upload speed, and the instant sleep button.

The removable footboard can be used to adjust the inline and the height of the keyboard, but the downside is that it doesn't come with any form of wrist support. All of these things make it the best mac keyboard for programming.

Pros:
  • The option to choose between two Cherry MX switches (Brown or Blue)
  • N-key rollover
  • Separate keys for volume and track manipulation
  • Two USB 3.0
  • Instant sleep button

Razer BlackWidow Elite

The Best Mechanical Keyboard for Programming


Here's another one designed for gamers that can also fit programmers.

The top plate of this wired keyboard is made out of high-quality metal and the keys are made to withstand 80 million clicks.

Opting for this mechanical keyboard also means choosing between Orange, Green, or Yellow switches, depending on whether you prefer your keys to be tactile or linear, and silent or not. All of the switches are ultra-fast and responsive, and that's why it's the best mechanical keyboard for programming.

Additionally, there are supplementary keys that you can use for manipulating tracks and their volume, but they're a bit further than comfortable for the hand.

The key programming and RGB backlight can easily be managed by the usage of Razor's Synapse 3 software, with the ability to use the keyboard memory to keep the set profiles.

Even though it's full-sized and not as comfortable, it comes with demountable wrist support. It also has a USB port and a 3.5mm jack for your headphones.

Unfortunately, the Synapse 3 software can only be used on devices operated by Windows.

Pros:
  • Orange, Green, or Yellow switches
  • 3.5mm jack for your headphones
  • Full RBG backlight
  • Separate tracks and volume manipulation keys
  • Demountable wrist support
Cons:
  • The Synapse 3 is made to be used only on Windows-operated devices

Happy Hacking Keyboard Professional2

The Best Laptop Keyboard for Programming


Mac select all shortcut. This compact keyboard is made for coders and writers who prefer a minimalistic design.

Like the ones before, HHKP is wired and mechanical, but it's extremely compact. That makes it lightweight and portable, but the durability is secured by PBT plastic for the keycaps.

Because it only has 60 keys it has to rely on key combos to make everything work. There are no separate numbers pad and arrow keys, but they're integrated into others and customizable.

It's also possible to get a variant with clean keycaps because all operating systems have different key placements. All of these things make HHKP ergonomically great, but it's hard to get used to.

It uses Topre switches with 45g responsiveness, which are comfortable and quiet.

Additional features are two USB ports and a three-level adjustable height, and it can easily be attached to your laptop and that's why it's the best laptop keyboard for programming.

Pros:
  • Comfortable design
  • Portable and lightweight
  • Compatible with, macOS, Linux, and Windows
  • Two USB ports
  • Quiet
Cons:
  • The layout is not for everybody and it's hard to get used to

Code V3 87-Key Illuminated Mechanical Keyboard

The Best Compact Mechanical Keyboard for Programming


This one is not as compact as the HHKP, but it's still a tenkeyless keyboard. It comes with a USB cable, but it can be conveniently taken out.

Code uses Cherry MX Brown switches great for programming because they're very responsive and precise. The 45cN actuation force accompanied by the tactile bump without the click makes for a great typing experience, made from long-lasting, high-quality components, but the keycaps aren't made from such strong material.

Everything can be programmed without a software, and it sports onboard memory so that you can save all of your preferences. Also, it has a white LED backlight, great for typing in the dark, with seven brightness levels.

Additionally, it has multimedia shortcuts and comes with a detachable 5.9ft long USB cable.

Pros:
  • Cherry MX Brown switches
  • Portable
  • Detachable USB cable
Cons:
  • Keycaps aren't made from high-quality materials

Microsoft Sculpt

The Best Membrane Ergonomic Keyboard for Programming


This keyboard is a bit different than the ones we covered until now, mainly because it's wireless, uses a membrane, and is made to be extremely ergonomic.

Even though it's not one of the best wireless keyboards out there, the Microsoft Sculpt is the best one for programmers. The wireless keyboard is non-rechargeable and works on two AAA batteries and a CR2430 for the separate numbers pad.

Also unlike the others on this list, it's based on a highly responsive membrane, but that can never replace the quality of switches.

The best part about Microsoft Sculpt is its ergonomic shape that's made to lower the wrist strain of users. Split keyboards are proven to be the best for your wrist health. Besides the separate number pad, the keyboard is partly split into two with a negative tilt towards the middle. It also comes with a palm rest and the tilt of the keyboard can be adjusted.

Interestingly enough, the keys aren't made to be smaller to fit the ergonomic aspect, making it easier to type on them. The biggest downside of this keyboard is that its shape makes it harder to get used to.

Cons:
  • It takes time to adapt to it
  • Membrane

Kinesis Advantage2 Ergonomic Keyboard

The Best Ergonomic Keyboard for Programming


This brand is a known when it comes to making ergonomically designed keyboards, and this one is no exception.

This wired, mechanical, tenkeyless keyboard might seem bulky and hard to type on, but you just need an adaption period.

It uses Cherry MX Brown switches that are highly responsive, with a 45cN actuation force, but that are also quiet. These switches are needed because of the keyboard's interesting design, and they do the job well.

Ergonomically, the shape of the keyboard makes it so that you don't have to move your wrist at all while typing. The alphanumerical and dedicated keys are split into two concave sections, and the rest are put into thumb clusters.

Even though it's hard to get used to, the keys are fully programmable and can be changed in 100 different ways, and also from QWERTY to Dvorak if that's your preference. You can save any new sequences that you create and switch between them just by clicking an alphanumerical hotkey that you assigned to it.

The keyboard is fully compatible with Windows and macOS computers, and you won't need to install any special drivers to use it.

Pros:
  • Ergonomic design
  • Cherry MX Brown switches
  • Programmable key sequences
  • Onboard memory

No matter how great your overall Mac experience is, you can always improve it, and finding the best keyboard that suits your needs perfectly is an excellent way to start. When you find and buy such a keyboard, you'll certainly wonder why you didn't get it before. Same as many other Mac accessories, a good keyboard can really make a difference – you won't be frustrated when typing, and you will increase your productivity. In this article, we are going to talk about the top best Mac keyboards, so keep on reading because you may find the one perfect for your needs.

See also: How to find the best mouse for Mac

What to consider when choosing a keyboard?

Browsing through the sheer number of best Mac keyboards available online may change the common notion that Apple doesn't support third-party accessories. While the manufacturer is capable of making the most premium peripherals such as the newly launched Magic Keyboard, Air Pods and the unique Apple mouse, there are so many third party manufacturers ready to aid your usage scenario.

Apple follows a specific design pattern whereas you can get a similar, completely new experience from a Logitech keyboard or a cheaper alternative with additional features. The best part is that they make it pure white with a matte finish so that it easily syncs with the design aesthetics of your Mac setup at home or the office.

Before we list some of the best Mac keyboards, let's see the things you should consider.

  • Ergonomics – If you are spending hours working on your computer every day, your hands should be in a natural position when you are typing, which means you need to choose a keyboard with such a design. Many great keyboards come with the adjustable tilt and height and with such keyboard, you won't feel any pain in joints after hours of work and you will feel comfortable when typing.
  • Type of keys – There are many laptop-style keyboards for Mac, and all of them look wonderful. However, many people simply don't like these type of keyboards as it may feel strange when typing. If you are one of those people, the keyboard with the raised keys a much better option.
  • Wireless or wired keyboard? You will have to decide if you want a keyboard with or without a cable. The wired keyboard is a much better option for gaming because with such a keyboard you will avoid lag issues that may occur sometimes. If you don't like cables, the wireless keyboard for which you need the USB port on your computer is the perfect option for you but don't forget that you will need the batteries. Also, wireless keyboards are usually more expensive.
  • Features – Many keyboards today come with additional function buttons and media features buttons such as page up and down, volume up and down, browser button, mute button, just to name a few. If you don't like such options, don't worry, there are many awesome keyboards with just the standard QWERTY keys.

Best Mac Keyboards

The cheapest wired full-size keyboard

Mac allay Full-Size USB Wired Mac Keyboard

After having spent thousands of dollars for your Apple Mac setup, you may probably want to save some money on your replacement keyboard. Although your mileage may vary, this is the cheapest full-size keyboard you can find for your Mac. The white design seamlessly syncs with your Macintosh and the full-sized design allows you to get more things done, especially with the numeric pads being ideal for people in accounting.

The designers have implemented 15 Apple-specific shortcut keys to easily access all repeatedly used functions such as cut, copy and paste. There are also dedicated buttons to pause, play, increase or decrease the volume in your iTunes. It is a wired keyboard and the low-profile key doesn't produce any noise when you type. For people who are largely addicted to Bluetooth, this may sound a bit off. However, if you are not interested in replacing batteries and like to keep it plugged in, this feature becomes useful.

Why should you buy this keyboard?

  • The full-sized keyboard includes a numeric keypad, making it easy for people into accounting to get things done faster.
  • It is USB wired version which ensures that you don't have to worry about replacing batteries again.
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Best Apple Keyboard

Apple Wired Keyboard with numeric keypad

If you don't want anything but Apple, this ultra-thin keyboard is a perfect choice. It has a beautiful and stylish design, built-in USB ports, and low profile keys. To can access many different Mac features such as eject, volume, screen brightness, fast-forward, rewind, just to name a few. For many users, this is unquestionably one of the best Mac keyboards.

While there are so many amazing choices available, the Apple-designed Magic Keyboard for Mac is without a doubt the best product you could buy. The third-party manufacturers do offer a similar white design with a compact footprint and some additional features like Solar charging that may not be available in the original version. It continues to stand out as the best made possible keyboard with Apple's robust build quality.

The keyboard uses a scissor mechanism behind each key providing it more stability and posture when you type continuously. The key travel is very less that keeps it silent at all times and provides a precise typing experience with no wrist or finger fatigue. The built-in rechargeable battery lasts at least for a month before it needs to be recharged. This is a full-sized keyboard from Apple providing you the numeric keypad that is integral for accounting work.

Why should you buy this keyboard?

  • The Magic keyboard is made by none other than Apple that provides you brand assurance and design aesthetics.
  • The battery life is excellent and, it being a full-sized keyboard sweetens the deal.

Best Compact Keyboard For Mac

Anker® Ultra Compact Slim Profile Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard

Many users prefer wireless keyboards, and if you are one of them this beautiful, slim keyboard may be exactly what you have been looking for. It deserves to be on the list of the best Mac keyboards for several reasons. It is a lightweight keyboard, intuitive and very comfortable for typing. If you are not using the keyboard for half an hour, it will go into the power saving mode automatically. It is not only the perfect keyboard for your Mac, but it is also compatible with iOS devices, Android, and Windows. Its price starts at $25.

Anker has meticulously designed this Bluetooth keyboard and they have come out with flying colors in making it ultra-compact and slim. The Bluetooth keyboard doesn't have a numeric keyboard and is so small that it occupies only two-third of the space occupied by a traditional keyboard. Powered by a large 800mAh battery, it can run for nearly six months even if you use it for two hours non-stop daily.

Using a keyboard without a break is very difficult which confirms that it should easily last months and the Bluetooth is designed to automatically connect with the last device it was paired with. The Anker compact keyboard is also compatible with a range of Bluetooth devices including Mac, PC, Windows, iOS and Android. You can use it easily with your iPhone, Mac or an Android phone. Anker has also ensured that it is easy to type on this device with low-profile matte keys with the frame being sturdy to last long.

Why should you buy this keyboard?

  • The best compact keyboard that you could buy for your Mac
  • The battery life is reliable and lasts months on a single charge

A Mac keyboard with mechanical switches

Azio Mk-Mac Wired USB Backlit Keyboard with Brown K-Switch

Have you ever heard of a mechanical keyboard for the Apple Mac? If you haven't, this Azio MK-Mac keyboard should put you on track. Mechanical key switches are popular among gamers and typists in the world of Windows computers. For Mac, it is a concept unheard of. But for the enthusiasts out there who want the best of OS X and input choices, Azio has an option. They have managed to retain the pure white color and used white backlights for the keyboard bringing it on par with any Mac-friendly keyboard out there.

While the product featured here is the USB wired model, you can also find the MK Mac BT with a Bluetooth setup for a slightly higher price. The keyboard features tactile brown k-switches which are non-clicky and doesn't make too much noise. The MK-Mac Wired USB keyboard is exclusively designed for Mac with all Apple-specific button layout including hotkeys for easy access. It also has a dedicated volume control wheel which should make analog lovers happy as you can increase or reduce the volume on your iTunes music playback at will.

Why should you buy this keyboard?

  • Mechanical switches for Mac is a unique feature that sets this keyboard apart from the competition.
  • Azio has also maintained the Mac key layout and provides a physical volume control button enhancing the analog experience.
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Best Mac Keyboard With Modern Design

Logitech Bluetooth Easy-Switch K811 Keyboard For Mac

Logitech Bluetooth Easy-Switch Keyboard with Bluetooth technology is specially designed for Mac. It has bright backlit keys for typing in a dark room. battery life is excellent. It is slim, compact and it has a beautiful, modern design. It can be used for the iPad and iPhone as well. It provides an enjoyable typing experience.

Logitech is primarily a peripherals manufacturer for Windows PCs but they are not giving up on the world of Mac and Apple devices. The Logitech Easy-Switch K811 is the best Mac keyboard you will ever need if you have already invested heavily in Apple's ecosystem of devices. The Easy-Switch name comes from an actual switch found on this keyboard which allows you to seamlessly change between your Mac, iPad or iPhone to keep typing without interruptions.

The Bluetooth keyboard provides a solid range of up to 30 feet which allows you to keep it connected to multiple devices in the vicinity. The keys are all backlit, facilitating you to type in the dark and it also includes a rechargeable battery. The USB cable can be used to recharge it which should theoretically last at least a month of daily usage. Logitech has designed a unique keycap for the K811 which enables it to be whisper-quiet when typing and it also sports a Mac layout to let Apple fans use it seamlessly on familiar grounds.

Why should you buy this keyboard?

Keyboard
  • Logitech's unique and useful easy switch technology allows you to change the connection between a Mac, iPhone or iPad easily. A must-have for people with multiple Apple devices.
  • Quite keys that are comfortable yet don't make any noise during long typing sessions.
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Other models worth buying

Best Ergonomic Keyboard For Mac

Microsoft Natural Ergonomic Keyboard 4000

This model has a cutting-edge design, and some of the key features are intuitive Zoom Slider, customizable hotkeys, and improved number pad. Typing on it is a pure pleasure, so if you want a keyboard from Microsoft, feel free to go for this one.

Why should you buy this keyboard?

  • Women who work out of homes must invest in this keyboard as it is extremely comfortable to use.
  • For the ones who are looking for greater comfort and keep wrist pains at bay having this keyboard is preferable.

Best Wireless Keyboard For Mac

Logitech Wireless solar keyboard K750 for Mac

If you like wireless keyboards, you will love this keyboard! Rely on the light instead of the batteries, because any light source will keep this keyboard charged. It delivers an enjoyable typing experience – you will type quieter, and faster. It has ultra-thin design and it comes with a familiar Mac layout.

Why should you buy this keyboard?

  • Logitech is a brand that has been manufacturing some great keyboards of all genres. Their keyboards do not wear off easily.
  • There is no need to charge the batteries as the keyboard works on solar power.
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Best Mac Keyboard For Fast Typing

Das Keyboard Professional Models S for Mac

It comes with ultra-sensitive tactile response meaning to type much faster with ease. Das keyboard has two-port USB 2.0 hub – you can connect USB compatible devices or charge your iPhone. There are Mac function keys included: play/pause, next and previous track, volume up and down, mute, brightness up and down, sleep etc.

Why should you buy this keyboard?

  • The keys can be replaced as desired while using different kinds of Operating systems.
  • The multi-media keys option offers great functionality and usability experience.

Best Cheap Keyboard For Mac

Macally 103 key full-size USB keyboard

This keyboard could be the right one for you since it is an inexpensive substitute for Apple keyboards. It comes with Mac OS X features and shortcut keys and LED indicator for power, Num lock and caps lock. Macally keyboard delivers outstanding typing experience thanks to the low-profile responsive keys. The price of this keyboard is under $15.

Why should you buy this keyboard?

  • This keyboard is best suitable for those who are into long hours of typing as it is comfortable to use.
  • This keyboard can be ideal for those who like to work with shortcut keys.
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Best Apple Keyboard With Long Battery Life

Matias Laptop Pro Keyboard for Mac

It is compact and easy to pack with great 1,600 mAh battery. The Mac-friendly function keys allow you to control the volume, brightness, and more. It connects to Android, iPad, PCs and other Bluetooth devices. It also has a great design.

Why should you buy this keyboard?

  • This keyboard is ideal for people who work for long working hours
  • This quiet keyboard offers an amazing experience for people with fast typing skills

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Mac keyboards be used with an iPad?

Check the specs sheet of the keyboard. Those keyboards designed to work on Mac computers may not be compatible with the iOS run iPads. Certain keys may not function or may offer different results. It is advisable to send a mail to the manufacturer of the Mac keyboard you are planning to buy or the seller to get a confirmation before placing the order. There are keyboards with the provision to alternate between different Apple products.

Are the Mac keyboards silent while typing?

Not necessarily. Many keyboards do produce noise while pressing the keys. If you are used to typing at a rapid speed, the noise levels may even be higher. Some high-end keyboards come with softer keys. Check out the listing which specifically addresses this issue and then place the order.

Will a Mac keyboard work with the Windows OS?

Not all Mac keyboards may have that capability. Yet, there are keyboards in the market that can be used with Mac machines and with Windows PCs as well. However, the typing experience may differ. If you can buy dedicated keyboards for Mac and other operating systems, you will feel comfortable with both.

Are wireless keyboards better or wired keyboards?

Both wireless, as well as wired keyboards, are good. Functionally there is hardly any difference between the two. The keys and the layout will all be the same. The only difference is that a wired keyboard will have a cord to connect the keyboard to the machine. In the case of the wireless keyboard, there is the USB receiver which you have to plug in to start using the keyboard. One benefit of the wireless keyboard is that you can use it from a distance. You can recline on your sofa and type keeping the laptop at a distance.

How soon do the letters and numbers on the keys wear out on keyboards?

Best Mac Keyboard Programming Software

In a normal environment with regular use, the letters on the keyboards don't wear out easily. If the keyboard is used in a highly dusty atmosphere or the user does not have clean fingers while typing away, then the letters or numbers and symbols can get erased. Some manufacturers use lamination to protect the letters. Ultimately, it is in the hands of the users.

Bottom line

A whole lot of new products have arrived. Picking the best Mac keyboard could be a difficult choice right now. If you have a good idea of your expectation, it should be much easier to choose one. The Logitech keyboard uses an unconventional solar power while Anker offers the most compact keyboard you could find. There's even a keyboard with mechanical switches and another one that connects with every Apple device. Pick your preferred one and enhance your Mac experience

Programming Keyboard Shortcuts

These are some of the top best Mac keyboards you can get. When choosing a keyboard, don't forget to consider the things we have mentioned at the beginning, such as ergonomics, type of keys, features, and so on. We have listed different types of keyboards here so that every person can find a perfect fit! Instalar imovie en mac.





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